JAPAN 2027
28 MARCH - 11 APRIL 2027 €4595 per person in a double/twin/triple sharing €5750 per adult in a single room
KYOTO - NARA - OSAKA - HIMEJI HIROSHIMA - MOUNT FUJI - KAMAKURA YOKOHAMA - TOKYO Highlights include Experiencing the Cherry Blossom, a Sushi Making Class, Kimono Dress-Up, a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, Cruising along Lake Kawaguchi, and many more...
Price Includes: Flights with Emirates: Malta – Dubai – Osaka / Tokyo – Dubai – Malta, Luggage Allowance: 30kg Checked Luggage & 7kg Hand Luggage Per Person, The itinerary is as follows for 15 days in Japan, including all transfers, high-speed trains, and excursions with English-speaking guides, 4-star accommodation + Ryokan stay, 1 typical Japanese dinner in Ryokan, Experienced tour leader with you all the way from Malta, Experienced tour guide while in Japan, Local train card with 1st top up of €10 equivalent (this is used in your free time in the evenings and on your free days with guidance by your tour leader), Unique experiences: Tea ceremony, Sushi making class, & Kimono dress-up, Airport Taxes and Service Charges, Insolvency Fund Certificate.
Not Included: Tips to guides and drivers - You may opt to offer the guides and drivers a small gift from Malta instead; otherwise, tips are also appreciated. Travel Insurance - We provide Travel Insurance with Gasan Mamo Insurance at an additional cost. Vaccinations; Please check with the Floriana Health Centre on what is recommended. Optional Excursion: You have 2 free days, during which the recommended activities are at an extra cost.
Brief Itinerary Day 1
28 March
Depart from Malta with Emirates at 1530hrs and travel via Dubai to Osaka. Arrive in Osaka. Transfer to the hotel in Kyoto.
Day 2
29 March
Day 3
30 March
Kyoto full-day city tour.
Day 4
31 March
Kyoto full-day city tour.
Day 5
01 April
Travel: Kyoto - Nara - Osaka.
Day 6
02 April
Free Day: Suggestions - Kobe with your tour leader
Free evening to roam around Kyoto.
or go to Universal Studios. Day 7
03 April
Travel: Osaka - Himeji - Hiroshima.
Day 8
04 April
Hiroshima - Miyajima.
Day 9
05 April
Hiroshima - Mt.Fuji - Ryokan Stay
Day 10
06 April
Lake Kawaguchi (Mt Fuji) - Tokyo
Day 11
07 April
Kamakura- Yokohama
Day 12
08 April
Tokyo full-day city tour
Day 13
09 April
Day 14
10 April
Tokyo city tour - departure
Day 15
11 April
Arrive Malta
Tokyo free day – optional to visit Disneyland or visit Nikko for the day
Detailed Itinerary 28th March: Depart Malta Meet at Malta International Airport at 1230hrs for check-in. Depart Malta for Dubai. On arrival, remain in transit for your connecting flight to Osaka.
29th March: Arrive in Osaka On arrival in Osaka, transfer to your centrally located hotel in Kyoto and check-in. The evening is free. Overnight in Kyoto.
30th March: Kyoto Today’s exploration of Kyoto begins with a Unique Experience – Tea Ceremony. Kyoto is famous for tea houses and the best location to witness the art behind the well-blended matcha tea and the understanding of peace, harmony and quiet with every sip. Afterwards, visit the historic Kiyomizudera Temple, founded in 778 AD and renowned for its wooden stage overlooking the city. Continue with a stroll along the charming Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets, lined with traditional tea shops, local crafts, and souvenir stores. In the afternoon, we head to Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, where we’ll wander through streets filled with teahouses and traditional townhouses, keeping an eye out for a Geisha on her way to a performance. The day concludes with a visit to the lively Maruyama Park, especially beautiful during Cherry Blossom Season. Overnight stay in Osaka | Meals: Breakfast
31st March: Kyoto This morning, discover Kyoto with a start at the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, celebrated for its striking pathway of hundreds of bright red Torii gates that wind gracefully up the hillside. As you walk through this breathtaking tunnel of gates, take some time to pause and enjoy local street food from nearby vendors, adding extra flavour to the experience. We then continue to the magnificent Kinkakuji Temple, the renowned Golden Pavilion, whose shimmering reflection over the surrounding pond creates one of Japan’s most iconic views. In the afternoon, we travel to the scenic district of Arashiyama, where a stroll through the magical Bamboo Forest feels like stepping into another world. Free time in Arashiyama for lunch , coffee shops and walks along the river and bridge with views of Cherry Blossoms displaying a perfect backdrop over the cascading river. Overnight stay in Kyoto | Meals: Breakfast
1st April: Kyoto - Nara - Osaka After checking out of our hotel, we will head to Nara to visit the famous Deer Park and the impressive Todai-ji Temple. You’ll have free time for lunch before we continue to Osaka in the afternoon. There, we will stroll through Nishinomaru Garden and admire Osaka Castle from the park, perfect for taking photos. Later, we’ll head to the lively Dotonbori district to experience the magical transition from day to dusk as the neon lights reflect over the canals. You will have some free time before transferring to our hotel. Overnight stay in Osaka | Meals: Breakfast
2nd April: Free Day Today is a free day to enjoy at your own pace. For those who wish, you may spend the day at Universal Studios Japan (your tour leader will provide guidance on how to get there – tickets can only be purchased closer to the date). For travellers who prefer an alternative, join your tour leader on an excursion to Kobe, where we’ll explore the vibrant Kobe Harbourland before continuing to the lively Chinatown district. This exploration will be done partly on foot and by local train, using the train card provided. Overnight stay in Osaka | Meals: Breakfast
3rd April: Osaka - Himeji - Hiroshima This morning, we check out and travel to Himeji, home to Japan’s largest and most beautifully preserved original castle. Known as the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant, white exterior, Himeji Castle is a masterpiece of feudal architecture. You’ll have the chance to explore the interior, wandering through its historic halls, staircases, and defensive structures while imagining life in the castle during the samurai era. The surrounding gardens and grounds provide perfect spots for photos and reflection. Afterwards, we continue by coach to Hiroshima, a city of resilience and remembrance, arriving in time to settle in at our hotel. Overnight stay in Hiroshima | Meals: Breakfast
4th April: Miyajima Island This morning, we head to the pier and take a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island, famous for its floating Torii gate and serene landscapes. On the island, we visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the surrounding temples, walking up the hillside trails to enjoy panoramic views. During this time, we’ll also admire the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Returning to Hiroshima, we reflect on the city’s history with visits to the Peace Memorial Museum, the Peace Memorial Park, and the poignant Children’s Peace Memorial. We also stop at the iconic A-Bomb Dome, a powerful symbol of resilience. Before concluding the day, we enjoy a photo opportunity at Hiroshima Castle, a striking reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Overnight stay in Hiroshima | Meals: Breakfast
5th April: Mt Fuji After checking out, we head to the station for an exciting Bullet Train experience, speeding north toward the scenic Hakone region. Upon arrival, we visit Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station (weather permitting), where you can take in breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak and the surrounding landscapes. In the evening, we arrive at our traditional ryokan, where you’ll enjoy an elaborate buffet dinner with Japanese and Western food and have the opportunity to relax in the rejuvenating onsen spa, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere. Overnight stay in Kawaguchi, near Mt. Fuji | Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
6th April: Kawaguchi - Tokyo After checking out, we depart for Kawaguchiko, nestled at the base of majestic Mt. Fuji. Enjoy a short cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, taking in the serene waters and capturing stunning reflections of Japan’s iconic peak. Next, experience the Panoramic Ropeway (cable car), which offers elevated views of the surrounding landscapes and unforgettable vistas of Mt. Fuji. We then visit the charming village of Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque settlement known for its clear spring-fed ponds and traditional thatched-roof houses, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mt. Fuji. Later, we travel onward to Tokyo. Overnight stay in Tokyo | Meals: Breakfast
7th April: Kamakura - Yokohama
Today we start the day at Ueno Park, a serene urban oasis where you can stroll among Cherry Blossoms, soaking in the natural charm of Tokyo. We then travel to Kamakura, the historic capital of Japan’s first Shogunate. Here, we visit Kotokuin Temple, home to the iconic Great Buddha statue, an awe-inspiring bronze figure that has stood for centuries, surrounded by tranquil gardens that invite reflection and photography. Next, continue to Yokohama, beginning at Minato Mirai, a futuristic waterfront district where sleek high-rises meet sparkling waters. Here, we’ll visit the Yokohama Landmark Tower and Plaza, offering panoramic city views from the observation deck and a range of stylish boutiques to explore. Finally, we wander through Yokohama’s vibrant Chinatown, a bustling area filled with colourful streets, ornate gates, and a rich blend of culture and cuisine. Overnight stay in Tokyo | Meals: Breakfast
8th April: Tokyo Enjoy a full-day exploration of Tokyo, starting in Asakusa. Here, we will start our day with a unique experience–kimono–wearing as we walk elegantly in our kimonos to the Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Street. In the afternoon, visit the Sky Tree, where we can enjoy aerial views of Tokyo with a 360-degree view of the city. We continue to the west side of the city, exploring the Meiji Jingu Shrine, the oldest Shinto shrine in Tokyo. We end the day with some free time at Takeshita Street and Omotesando, home to various animal cafes such as pig café or capybara café and branded shops. Overnight stay in Tokyo | Meals: Breakfast
9th April: Free Day Today is your free day. You can either visit Disneyland (your tour leader will guide you as to how to get there - tickets can only be purchased closer to the date), and for those who do not wish to visit the theme park, we can organise an optional tour to visit Nikko or you can further explore Tokyo on your own using your train card. Overnight stay in Tokyo | Meals: Breakfast
10th April: Tokyo After breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin the day at the bustling Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, where you can witness an extraordinary array of fresh seafood and experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of the world’s most famous markets. Next, for lunch, immerse yourself in a Unique Experience – Sushi Making Class, where you’ll have the chance to craft your own sushi creations under expert guidance, combining fun, learning, and delicious results. In the afternoon, we head to Odaiba, a futuristic waterfront district. Stop briefly in front of the Statue of Liberty replica, with views of the iconic Rainbow Bridge, before visiting TeamLab Planets, the world-famous digital art museum where interactive installations create immersive, ever-changing visual experiences. Final stop at the Imperial Palace Double Bridge for a photo stop before transferring to the airport for your departure back to Malta. Overnight in Tokyo | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
11th April: Tokyo - Malta Arrive in Malta at approximately 1400 hours.
Accommodation - Combination of 4-Star Accommodations and Ryokan Stay
Kyoto: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo or similar Osaka: Holiday Inn Osaka Namba or similar Hiroshima: Mercure Tokyo Stay Hiroshima or similar Ryokan: Hotel MYSTAYS Fuji Onsen Resort or similar Tokyo: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similar