Japan Adventure
Days:
17
Starts:
Tokyo
Finishes:
OSAKA
Meals:
15B, 2L, 2D
From:
$3749
Days:
17
Starts:
Tokyo
Finishes:
OSAKA
Meals:
15B, 2L, 2D
From:
$3749
Ready to say Kon’nichiwa to Japan? Let us show you how. Famed for futuristic cities, ancient traditions, drool worthy food and outstanding natural beauty, Japan is a country that will bring all your senses to life and send you home wanting more. Over 17 days visit Tokyo, Nagano, Hakone, Osaka, Koyasan, Kyoto, Nara and Hiroshima, where you’ll learn to roll sushi, wield a sword like a Samurai, fall in love with enchanted castles, learn about Hiroshima’s harrowing history, visit the local deer in Nara and Miyajima, and spend the night in the company of monks in a 1000-year-old Buddhist temple. Oh, and did we mention you’ll be doing all this with a knowledgeable group leader and crew of new mates? The trip of a lifetime just got even better...
From high end ‘flashpacker’ hostels to a beautiful traditional Japanese ‘Ryokan’ & a 1000 year old temple!
Check it out hereVisit ancient temples & shrines, explore the ultra-modern cities, learn to wield a Samurai sword & more!
See the full listAll transport during your adventure is sorted, including bullet trains, buses, subways, cable cars & more!
You'll get an awesome group leader from the moment you step off the plane to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip.
15 Breakfasts, 2 Lunch & 2 Dinners
We accurately measure the CO2 emissions of your tour and 100% offset them through planting the required amount of trees.
TOKYO
Konnichiwa and welcome to Tokyo! Today you’ll arrive into one of the world’s buzziest, most forward-thinking cities. Checking in to your hostel, you’ll meet up with your travel crew this evening and get excited for the adventures to come.
TOKYO
Today is about discovering all that Tokyo has in store. First up, we’ll pay a visit to one of the country’s oldest temples, Senso-ji Temple, before checking out the Meiji Shrine. Colourful, eclectic and fashion forward Harajuku is up next, before we brave the iconic Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection. After dinner this evening, we’ll then squeeze in to one of the hilariously tiny bars in the district of Shinjuku.
TOKYO
First up we're meeting with a sushi master to try our hand at the art of sushi rolling. Followed by some free time in Tokyo this afternoon, we'll then venture over to the futuristic sights and sounds of Akihabara in the evening. Known locally as the ‘Electric City’, it's famous for its electronic shops, maid cafes, Japanese photo booths, game centres and all things modern.
NAGANO
Now’s your chance to experience Japan’s famous bullet train for real. Shooting out of Tokyo at over 200mph, we’ll reach Nagano just in time to try out the ancient art of Origami, followed by a relaxing dip in an Onsen, aka a volcanic hot spring. Tonight we’ll settle in to our Ryokan style hotel, where you’ll be sleeping on traditional tatami mats and Japanese style futon bedding.
NAGANO
This morning we'll learn how to make our own Soba noodles! We’ll then be venturing out into the mountains to spot the region’s famous snow monkeys, or Japanese Macaques. These red faced trouble makers play amongst the trees in the summer months & warm by bathing in the natural hot springs once winter hits. Enjoying the fresh mountain air, we’ll then take our time exploring the gorgeous lakes and forests of the Shiga Kogen National Park (summer only).
HAKONE
It’s back on board the bullet train this morning, this time bound for Hakone. Famed for hot springs, natural beauty and (of course) Mount Fuji, we’ll check in to our trendy hostel that comes with its very own onsen.
OSAKA
You might not be walking the plank, but you will be exploring Hakone by pirate ship (and cable car) this morning, keeping eyes peeled for views of snow capped Mount Fuji. We’ll then journey on to Osaka, also known as the nation's kitchen. To celebrate, a BBQ dinner will be on us, where we'll fuel up for a night out, Osaka style.
OSAKA
This morning you’ll have time to yourself to chill and maybe squeeze in a spot of shopping, before we head out as a group to visit the 400 year old Osaka Castle. Looking like something straight out of a fairytale, you’ll struggle not to get house envy as we explore the grounds and hear stories of Japanese history and legends, including the country’s most famous warriors, the Samurai. We'll finish up by heading over to Dotonbori, Osaka's famous canal region and home to some of the best food in the country! The evening is yours to eat away.
KOYASAN
Ready for something extra special? Today we have just the thing - an overnight stay in a 1000 year old Buddhist temple. Leaving Osaka behind we’ll travel to the mountains for the town of Koyasan, where we’ll be welcomed into the temple by the monks who live there. They’ll teach us meditation and serve us their traditional foods. This evening we'll have a night time stroll through Japan's most famous cemetery.
KYOTO
It’s an early start today, but well worth it to watch the Buddhist monks perform their morning prayer ritual and fire ceremony. We’ll then be served their traditional breakfast before travelling on to our final destination, Kyoto. After checking in to our boutique hotel, you’ll have time to yourself to explore Japan’s ancient capital. Tonight we get to learn about Japan's mysterious Geishas with a tour of Gion, the district many of these artists call home.
KYOTO
Green, lush and vibrant, the Insta-famous Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama is our first stop today. Photos snapped, we’ll then head to the luxurious Golden Pavilion, so named for being covered entirely in gold leaf. Tonight's a free evening to maybe hit up a sushi restaurant, find a bar, or challenge your mates to a round of bowling.
KYOTO
Today we’ll visit the famous Torii gates of Fushimi-Inari. One of Japan’s most iconic and photographed shrines, the orange gates stretch all the way up the mountainside. This afternoon, you’ll learn how to wield a traditional samurai sword under the watchful eye of a Samurai master who's dedicated their life to the art of the sword.
KYOTO
This morning we’ll head off to discover the beautiful neighbourhood of Sannenzaka to experience a traditional tea ceremony. After savoring our cups of matcha tea, we’ll catch a local train to spend the afternoon exporing the gardens and temples of Nara. Look out for the docile bowing deers!
HIROSHIMA
Today we’re travelling further south down to Hiroshima via bullet train. Once we arrive, we’ll pay a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and the Atomic Bomb dome, which commemorate the tragic bombings of 1945. Wandering through the park we’ll pause at memorials dedicated to the victims, and while the stories will be difficult to learn about, it’s a necessary part of modern history that will enhance our appreciation for Japanese society today.
HIROSHIMA
Famed as one of Japan’s most scenic locations, we’ll take the ferry over to Itsukushima - aka Miyajima Island - to see the famous floating Torii Gate in the bay. With temples, friendly deer and hiking trails, we have the whole day to explore the island at our own pace. This evening, we'll head out to try Hiroshima’s specialty okonomiyaki, then perhaps find a hidden whiskey bar.
OSAKA
We’re off back to Osaka at the speed of light (okay, maybe not that fast), for a final day of last minute shopping and sightseeing. This evening we’re off to explore Shinsekai, the ‘New World’ together, a retro neighborhood in downtown Osaka full of quirky restaurants and izakayas where we’ll eat our way through the streets and 'kanpai' to the amazing time we’ve had together!
KYOTO
Your unforgettable 17 day adventure comes to an end today. Those flying home will make their way to the airport, or keep living the dream and extend your stay in Osaka or Japan with our help and the new friends you’ve made.
Making a positive difference to the amazing destinations we travel is at the core of what we do. Small Change is our own socially conscious initiative aimed at making the world that little bit better place to explore!
Check out the #SmallChange you'll be part of while doing this tour. Click here
The Japanese call Japan ‘a country of four seasons’ which basically means it’s got four distinct seasons, all beautiful and amazing for different reasons. The winter months (Dec-Mar) are cold but bring stunning snow-capped mountains and a magical winter wonderland feel, not to mention being the best time to see the famous ‘Snow Monkeys’. Spring (Apr - Jun) is popular for its colourful beauty and famous cherry blossoms. Summer (Jun - Aug) is hot, humid and great for outdoor activities and is the peak festival season. Autumn (Sep – Nov) again brings stunning colourful scenery such as the ‘koyo’ or Japanese autumn foliage. So you’re sure to have an amazing time any month of year!
This tour is mostly quad share accommodation - in modern hostels, a traditional Japanese Inn, and a 1000 year old temple. The hostels are chic, clean and cosy, with bunk beds. Accommodation in Japan is typically small and expensive, we have chosen the best and most varied places to provide an awesome experience at an affordable price.
Japan is a big country, and we mostly use public transport. This is the most efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly way to travel. Bullet trains are a highlight of travelling Japan, and Japan's incredible public transport network means we can travel just like the locals do.
Our Japan tour involves a LOT of walking, usually 10 - 20k steps per day! Walking is the best way to take in the sights, so while you do not need to be an athlete, a reasonable level of fitness (and comfy shoes!) will ensure you enjoy yourself.
While it is possible to cater to various diets in Japan, strict vegan and gluten free diets will have limited choices as egg, soy, fish stock and pork broth are common base ingredients in Japanese cuisine.
When should I arrive for my tour?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring in Tokyo or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins. Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about arriving into the country, your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Where can I update my arrival information for my tour?
Once you have booked your flights please log into the Manage My Booking area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you plan to arrive early and need extra nights accommodation, please let us know ASAP so we can book this for you. The cost and availability of extra nights will vary depending on which tour you have booked.
Which airport do I need to fly into?
You can find information on which airport to fly into and out of in the 'Arrival Info’ and ‘After Your Trip’ sections of our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
Can I book pre-tour accommodation with you?
If you are arriving before the tour start date and would like pre-nights accommodation please contact us ASAP.
Can I book post-tour accommodation with you?
Your group leader can book post-tour accommodation for you when you are on tour. Just need to let them know when you arrive.
How do I organise my airport transfer?
Japan does not include an airport transfer. Please refer to the INTRO Travel app (which you can download here for iPhone or Google) to see our recommended transfer options to your accommodation. Once you have booked your flights, please log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details so we know when you will be arriving at the accommodation.
A return transfer (after the tour) is not included, however your group leader can help arrange this for you, along with any other onward travel you need.
Are flights included in the price?
Flights to and from Japan are not included in the price of the tour and will need to be booked separately. You can get a quote on a flight to your destination here.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed). You can get a quote and purchase your travel insurance here.
Do I need a visa and can you arrange it for me?
Visa requirements vary depending on the country you are travelling to and your nationality. It’s your responsibility to check the visa and entry requirements for the country/s you will be travelling to. There is some information about visas in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
IMPORTANT: We cannot apply for your visa for you and strongly recommend that you check on the relevant embassy or consulate website for the country/s you’ll be travelling to well in advance of your departure, as requirements can change and some countries require you to apply for a visa before you travel.
How much spending money will I need?
All your activities, transport, accommodation and some meals are included in the tour, so you will mainly just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel.
The amount of money you’ll need depends on the tour you are doing. There’s information about how much money you’ll need for each tour in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
What’s the best way to access my money?
We recommend using a bank card local to your home country that has low or no transaction fees. In Japan many smaller businesses still use cash only, so it’s a good idea to have a little bit with you for your arrival.
What should I pack for my tour?
Whether you have a backpack or a suitcase the main thing to keep in mind is not to bring too much! We strongly recommend that you bring less than 20 kgs of stuff with you.
If you haven’t got a backpack yet, try and get one that zips open along the side. There will be places on the tour where you can do laundry, so you don’t need to bring 16 pairs of shorts with you.
You can view a packing checklist on our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups usually have around 12-16 people on them, usually aged between 18 to early 40's. We get people from all over the world on our tours, so you’ll get to bond with a wide range of travellers who all share that same passion for adventure! As long as you have an appetite for adventure and are happy bonding with people of all backgrounds, you’ll fit in perfectly!
How can I get in touch with my group?
You can reach out to your fellow travellers in our designated Facebook groups. We have a Facebook group for all our destinations, if you go to our INTRO Travel Community Facebook page you will be able to find the relevant group for your destination.
How can I get in touch with my group leader?
You will receive a ‘welcome email’ from your group leader approx. 2 weeks before your tour begins.
What if I'm travelling solo?
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made!
What if I'm travelling with a friend/s or partner?
Once you’ve made a booking just let us know who you’re travelling with and we can make a note that you are travelling together, and can put you in the same room.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
$400
From high end ‘flashpacker’ hostels to a beautiful traditional Japanese ‘Ryokan’ & a 1000 year old temple!
Check it out hereVisit ancient temples & shrines, explore the ultra-modern cities, learn to wield a Samurai sword & more!
See the full listAll transport during your adventure is sorted, including bullet trains, buses, subways, cable cars & more!
You'll get an awesome group leader from the moment you step off the plane to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip.
15 Breakfasts, 2 Lunch & 2 Dinners
We accurately measure the CO2 emissions of your tour and 100% offset them through planting the required amount of trees.
Konnichiwa and welcome to Tokyo! Today you’ll arrive into one of the world’s buzziest, most forward-thinking cities. Checking in to your hostel, you’ll meet up with your travel crew this evening and get excited for the adventures to come.
Today is about discovering all that Tokyo has in store. First up, we’ll pay a visit to one of the country’s oldest temples, Senso-ji Temple, before checking out the Meiji Shrine. Colourful, eclectic and fashion forward Harajuku is up next, before we brave the iconic Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection. After dinner this evening, we’ll then squeeze in to one of the hilariously tiny bars in the district of Shinjuku.
First up we're meeting with a sushi master to try our hand at the art of sushi rolling. Followed by some free time in Tokyo this afternoon, we'll then venture over to the futuristic sights and sounds of Akihabara in the evening. Known locally as the ‘Electric City’, it's famous for its electronic shops, maid cafes, Japanese photo booths, game centres and all things modern.
Now’s your chance to experience Japan’s famous bullet train for real. Shooting out of Tokyo at over 200mph, we’ll reach Nagano just in time to try out the ancient art of Origami, followed by a relaxing dip in an Onsen, aka a volcanic hot spring. Tonight we’ll settle in to our Ryokan style hotel, where you’ll be sleeping on traditional tatami mats and Japanese style futon bedding.
This morning we'll learn how to make our own Soba noodles! We’ll then be venturing out into the mountains to spot the region’s famous snow monkeys, or Japanese Macaques. These red faced trouble makers play amongst the trees in the summer months & warm by bathing in the natural hot springs once winter hits. Enjoying the fresh mountain air, we’ll then take our time exploring the gorgeous lakes and forests of the Shiga Kogen National Park (summer only).
It’s back on board the bullet train this morning, this time bound for Hakone. Famed for hot springs, natural beauty and (of course) Mount Fuji, we’ll check in to our trendy hostel that comes with its very own onsen.
You might not be walking the plank, but you will be exploring Hakone by pirate ship (and cable car) this morning, keeping eyes peeled for views of snow capped Mount Fuji. We’ll then journey on to Osaka, also known as the nation's kitchen. To celebrate, a BBQ dinner will be on us, where we'll fuel up for a night out, Osaka style.
This morning you’ll have time to yourself to chill and maybe squeeze in a spot of shopping, before we head out as a group to visit the 400 year old Osaka Castle. Looking like something straight out of a fairytale, you’ll struggle not to get house envy as we explore the grounds and hear stories of Japanese history and legends, including the country’s most famous warriors, the Samurai. We'll finish up by heading over to Dotonbori, Osaka's famous canal region and home to some of the best food in the country! The evening is yours to eat away.
Ready for something extra special? Today we have just the thing - an overnight stay in a 1000 year old Buddhist temple. Leaving Osaka behind we’ll travel to the mountains for the town of Koyasan, where we’ll be welcomed into the temple by the monks who live there. They’ll teach us meditation and serve us their traditional foods. This evening we'll have a night time stroll through Japan's most famous cemetery.
It’s an early start today, but well worth it to watch the Buddhist monks perform their morning prayer ritual and fire ceremony. We’ll then be served their traditional breakfast before travelling on to our final destination, Kyoto. After checking in to our boutique hotel, you’ll have time to yourself to explore Japan’s ancient capital. Tonight we get to learn about Japan's mysterious Geishas with a tour of Gion, the district many of these artists call home.
Green, lush and vibrant, the Insta-famous Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama is our first stop today. Photos snapped, we’ll then head to the luxurious Golden Pavilion, so named for being covered entirely in gold leaf. Tonight's a free evening to maybe hit up a sushi restaurant, find a bar, or challenge your mates to a round of bowling.
Today we’ll visit the famous Torii gates of Fushimi-Inari. One of Japan’s most iconic and photographed shrines, the orange gates stretch all the way up the mountainside. This afternoon, you’ll learn how to wield a traditional samurai sword under the watchful eye of a Samurai master who's dedicated their life to the art of the sword.
This morning we’ll head off to discover the beautiful neighbourhood of Sannenzaka to experience a traditional tea ceremony. After savoring our cups of matcha tea, we’ll catch a local train to spend the afternoon exporing the gardens and temples of Nara. Look out for the docile bowing deers!
Today we’re travelling further south down to Hiroshima via bullet train. Once we arrive, we’ll pay a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and the Atomic Bomb dome, which commemorate the tragic bombings of 1945. Wandering through the park we’ll pause at memorials dedicated to the victims, and while the stories will be difficult to learn about, it’s a necessary part of modern history that will enhance our appreciation for Japanese society today.
Famed as one of Japan’s most scenic locations, we’ll take the ferry over to Itsukushima - aka Miyajima Island - to see the famous floating Torii Gate in the bay. With temples, friendly deer and hiking trails, we have the whole day to explore the island at our own pace. This evening, we'll head out to try Hiroshima’s specialty okonomiyaki, then perhaps find a hidden whiskey bar.
We’re off back to Osaka at the speed of light (okay, maybe not that fast), for a final day of last minute shopping and sightseeing. This evening we’re off to explore Shinsekai, the ‘New World’ together, a retro neighborhood in downtown Osaka full of quirky restaurants and izakayas where we’ll eat our way through the streets and 'kanpai' to the amazing time we’ve had together!
Your unforgettable 17 day adventure comes to an end today. Those flying home will make their way to the airport, or keep living the dream and extend your stay in Osaka or Japan with our help and the new friends you’ve made.
Making a positive difference to the amazing destinations we travel is at the core of what we do. Small Change is our own socially conscious initiative aimed at making the world that little bit better place to explore!
Check out the #SmallChange you'll be part of while doing this tour. Click here
The Japanese call Japan ‘a country of four seasons’ which basically means it’s got four distinct seasons, all beautiful and amazing for different reasons. The winter months (Dec-Mar) are cold but bring stunning snow-capped mountains and a magical winter wonderland feel, not to mention being the best time to see the famous ‘Snow Monkeys’. Spring (Apr - Jun) is popular for its colourful beauty and famous cherry blossoms. Summer (Jun - Aug) is hot, humid and great for outdoor activities and is the peak festival season. Autumn (Sep – Nov) again brings stunning colourful scenery such as the ‘koyo’ or Japanese autumn foliage. So you’re sure to have an amazing time any month of year!
This tour is mostly quad share accommodation - in modern hostels, a traditional Japanese Inn, and a 1000 year old temple. The hostels are chic, clean and cosy, with bunk beds. Accommodation in Japan is typically small and expensive, we have chosen the best and most varied places to provide an awesome experience at an affordable price.
Japan is a big country, and we mostly use public transport. This is the most efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly way to travel. Bullet trains are a highlight of travelling Japan, and Japan's incredible public transport network means we can travel just like the locals do.
Our Japan tour involves a LOT of walking, usually 10 - 20k steps per day! Walking is the best way to take in the sights, so while you do not need to be an athlete, a reasonable level of fitness (and comfy shoes!) will ensure you enjoy yourself.
While it is possible to cater to various diets in Japan, strict vegan and gluten free diets will have limited choices as egg, soy, fish stock and pork broth are common base ingredients in Japanese cuisine.
When should I arrive for my tour?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring in Tokyo or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins. Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about arriving into the country, your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Where can I update my arrival information for my tour?
Once you have booked your flights please log into the Manage My Booking area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you plan to arrive early and need extra nights accommodation, please let us know ASAP so we can book this for you. The cost and availability of extra nights will vary depending on which tour you have booked.
Which airport do I need to fly into?
You can find information on which airport to fly into and out of in the 'Arrival Info’ and ‘After Your Trip’ sections of our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
Can I book pre-tour accommodation with you?
If you are arriving before the tour start date and would like pre-nights accommodation please contact us ASAP.
Can I book post-tour accommodation with you?
Your group leader can book post-tour accommodation for you when you are on tour. Just need to let them know when you arrive.
How do I organise my airport transfer?
Japan does not include an airport transfer. Please refer to the INTRO Travel app (which you can download here for iPhone or Google) to see our recommended transfer options to your accommodation. Once you have booked your flights, please log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details so we know when you will be arriving at the accommodation.
A return transfer (after the tour) is not included, however your group leader can help arrange this for you, along with any other onward travel you need.
Are flights included in the price?
Flights to and from Japan are not included in the price of the tour and will need to be booked separately. You can get a quote on a flight to your destination here.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed). You can get a quote and purchase your travel insurance here.
Do I need a visa and can you arrange it for me?
Visa requirements vary depending on the country you are travelling to and your nationality. It’s your responsibility to check the visa and entry requirements for the country/s you will be travelling to. There is some information about visas in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
IMPORTANT: We cannot apply for your visa for you and strongly recommend that you check on the relevant embassy or consulate website for the country/s you’ll be travelling to well in advance of your departure, as requirements can change and some countries require you to apply for a visa before you travel.
How much spending money will I need?
All your activities, transport, accommodation and some meals are included in the tour, so you will mainly just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel.
The amount of money you’ll need depends on the tour you are doing. There’s information about how much money you’ll need for each tour in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
What’s the best way to access my money?
We recommend using a bank card local to your home country that has low or no transaction fees. In Japan many smaller businesses still use cash only, so it’s a good idea to have a little bit with you for your arrival.
What should I pack for my tour?
Whether you have a backpack or a suitcase the main thing to keep in mind is not to bring too much! We strongly recommend that you bring less than 20 kgs of stuff with you.
If you haven’t got a backpack yet, try and get one that zips open along the side. There will be places on the tour where you can do laundry, so you don’t need to bring 16 pairs of shorts with you.
You can view a packing checklist on our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups usually have around 12-16 people on them, usually aged between 18 to early 40's. We get people from all over the world on our tours, so you’ll get to bond with a wide range of travellers who all share that same passion for adventure! As long as you have an appetite for adventure and are happy bonding with people of all backgrounds, you’ll fit in perfectly!
How can I get in touch with my group?
You can reach out to your fellow travellers in our designated Facebook groups. We have a Facebook group for all our destinations, if you go to our INTRO Travel Community Facebook page you will be able to find the relevant group for your destination.
How can I get in touch with my group leader?
You will receive a ‘welcome email’ from your group leader approx. 2 weeks before your tour begins.
What if I'm travelling solo?
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made!
What if I'm travelling with a friend/s or partner?
Once you’ve made a booking just let us know who you’re travelling with and we can make a note that you are travelling together, and can put you in the same room.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
$400
3 nights in a modern hostel in the heart of Ueno. With quad share rooms, shared bathrooms, WiFi, air con & laundry.
2 nights in traditional Ryokan accommodation. With quad share room, ensuites, WiFi, air con & Japanese-style futon bedding on tatami mats.
1 night in a new funky hostel with onsen facilities. With quad share rooms, ensuites, WiFi, air con, laundry & balcony.
3 nights in a fun modern hotel in central Osaka. With double/twin share rooms, ensuites, WiFi, air con, laundry & close to all the action!
1 night in a 1000 year-old Buddhist temple. With quad share rooms, shared bathrooms, Japanese-style futon bedding, WiFi, air con & onsen facilities. The experience of a lifetime!
4 nights in private rooms in an amazing boutique hostel. With twin/double rooms, ensuites, WiFi, air con, laundry & rooftop terrace. Perfectly located in central Kyoto.
2 nights in private rooms in a centrally located hostel. With twin rooms, ensuites, WiFi, air con, laundry & lounge.
To make our tours as eco-friendly as possible we partnered with Path Net Zero to accurately measure our tours emissions, and Veritree to plant trees to offset those emissions. We are very proud to say that every INTRO tour is 100% carbon neutral.
Single use plastic is the largest contributor of waste ruining beautiful places around the world. We have refillable water stations at all of our overnight stops, so you can grab an INTRO bottle and keep your waste down!
Supporting Kyoto’s heritage by contributing to the Samurai House Fund, helping restore and maintain this historic building. Your donation preserves the legacy of Japan’s samurai, safeguarding their stories, values, and traditions for future generations. Each contribution directly benefits the local community and keeps Kyoto’s cultural history alive.
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture in Nagano with origami and soba noodle-making classes, led by local artisans. Learn traditional skills, connect with the community’s heritage, and support local families dedicated to preserving these crafts.
Discover Japan’s spiritual heritage with a guided visit to Tokyo’s largest Buddha temple and a revered Shinto shrine. Our local guides share the history and beliefs that shape these sacred places, offering you a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and values rooted in nature and ancestry.
Explore Kyoto’s historic streets on our Geisha walking tour and step into the world of Japan’s iconic artists. Guided by local experts, you’ll learn about the artistry, dedication, and cultural importance of the Geisha community, gaining a deep appreciation for their role in preserving Japanese heritage.
To make our tours as eco-friendly as possible we partnered with Path Net Zero to accurately measure our tours emissions, and Veritree to plant trees to offset those emissions. We are very proud to say that every INTRO tour is 100% carbon neutral.
Single use plastic is the largest contributor of waste ruining beautiful places around the world. We have refillable water stations at all of our overnight stops, so you can grab an INTRO bottle and keep your waste down!
Supporting Kyoto’s heritage by contributing to the Samurai House Fund, helping restore and maintain this historic building. Your donation preserves the legacy of Japan’s samurai, safeguarding their stories, values, and traditions for future generations. Each contribution directly benefits the local community and keeps Kyoto’s cultural history alive.
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture in Nagano with origami and soba noodle-making classes, led by local artisans. Learn traditional skills, connect with the community’s heritage, and support local families dedicated to preserving these crafts.
Discover Japan’s spiritual heritage with a guided visit to Tokyo’s largest Buddha temple and a revered Shinto shrine. Our local guides share the history and beliefs that shape these sacred places, offering you a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and values rooted in nature and ancestry.
Explore Kyoto’s historic streets on our Geisha walking tour and step into the world of Japan’s iconic artists. Guided by local experts, you’ll learn about the artistry, dedication, and cultural importance of the Geisha community, gaining a deep appreciation for their role in preserving Japanese heritage.
