Japan Winter Wonder
From CAD $3585
Guarantee
Group Tour
Easy
Rating
(17 reviews)
Say kon'nichiwa to the land of sushi, samurai & sake! In a country where the ancient and the modern collide in truly mesmerising style, you’ll make your way from Osaka to Tokyo, taking in temples, teppanyaki, geishas and gardens, plus miniature deer along the way.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 9 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- Bangkok: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- Nara: What is the currency used in Japan? The currency (that can buy you some unbeatable authentic sushi) in Japan is the Japanese Yen (¥).
- Tokyo: How do I make my way to the starting point? Are transfers included? This will depend on which city you arrive at.TokyoTokyo is serviced by two major international airports, Narita and Haneda. You’re welcome to take a taxi to the hotel, but these tend to be quite expensive. That’s why, the best way to reach our hotel is by train. You can purchase tickets from the counter at the airport. And the journey will take you 1-2 hours.Osaka The Kansai International Airport in Osaka is around 45 minutes away from our hotel by bus. And the best way to get there is by bus, that’ll drop you off close to our hotel. You can get your tickets at the counter. We don’t recommend getting a taxi since they tend to be quite expensive.
- Nara: What kind of luggage should I bring? What are restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights on this trip.You’ll travel between a few destinations via the Shinkansen (bullet train), and won’t have your main luggage because of the space restrictions. But there’s no need to worry, because we’ll send everything forward to the next hotel via truck.In Hiroshima and Mt Koya, you’ll need to bring an overnight bag since you won’t have your main luggage with you. Your Trip Manager will advise you about what you should bring for each day.
- Nara: Can bullet train tickets be used at a later date? Starstruck by the Shinkansen? Same. All bullet train tickets are one-use-only tickets (and not passes). So, you won’t be able to use them after the trip has concluded.
- Nara: Will I be given a Japan Rail (JR) Pass? A Japan Rail Pass can be quite handy while travelling in Japan. But since we’ve got you covered for the transport, you won’t need a Japan Rail Pass. You’re always welcome to ask your Trip Manager where you can buy one once the trip ends.
- Nara: Is Street Kart or Mario Kart available as an optional activity? Currently, Street Kart or Mario Kart aren’t offered on any Contiki trip. Who knows what the future holds, though?
Included Experience
- Kyoto: Tea houses. Kiyomizu Temple. The Golden Pavilion. Geishas. It’s all so surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a film set.
- Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
- Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
- Hakone: Prepare to be impressed. An awesome cable car ride is set against dream-like views of Mount Fuji.
- Tokyo: Check out the Sensoji Temple, one of the most significant temples in Japan, decked with a 5-storey pagoda. Don't forget to snap a pic under the giant red lantern!
- Tokyo: Get a piece of Japan to take back home from one of the many little stalls here on Nakamise Street, just a short walk from the Sensoji Temple.
- Tokyo: Visit this Shinto shrine in Shibuya, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shōken. You'll have the chance to wander through a tranquil forest, passing under the world-famous Tori Gate. And ofc, stop for a picture in front of the many colourful Sake barrels, and make a wish at the sacred Camphor tree.
- Tokyo: Get ready for a riot of colour and vibrant fashion. This was (and still is) a home for Japanese fashion. Grab a vintage bag, a pair of sneakers or a kawaii outfit. And don't get us started on the food! You'll find rainbow cotton candy, candy covered strawberries or a rainbow cheese sandwich.
- Tokyo: It's only the biggest pedestrian intersection in the world! Come watch the world go by (and grab an iconic picture) on the crossing.
Trip Details
Product Code: 27205
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
18 - 35 Year Olds Only, Budget
Tour Operator:
Contiki (CA)
Supplier Code: 260.548B
Starts: Osaka, Japan
Finishes: Tokyo, Japan
Duration: 10 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
Includes
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3585 ($358 /day)
Itinerary
Kon'nichiwa friends, and welcome to the land of the rising sun. Famed for its beauty, culture, cuisine and just a touch of crazy, this is one trip you won't be forgetting any time soon. Get settled into your hotel before joining forces with your Trip Manager & travel crew & head out to explore the local area.
Accommodation: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Osaka is all yours today! Head to Osaka Castle or Sumiyoshi-taisa for a dose of history, or to Nara to meet the cutest deers ever! This evening, you have the option to gobble down a delicious meal at an Izakaya - traditional little restaurants with rice beer, sake & locals finishing up their days. Still not done for the day? We sense some traditional Japanese PATI (that's Japanese for partying) and karaoke may be on the cards....
Accommodation: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Tuck in to your tasty breakfast this morning, you're going to need the food fuel for a full day in Kyoto. Arriving into Kyoto, we'll kick things off with a guided tour of this beautiful, traditional city. Take in the sights of the city including temples, gardens, colourful shrines & world famous geisha girls. This evening is free for you to get to know Kyoto your way, most likely trying out local cuisine in the Shirakawa area & getting to grips with the buzzy Kyoto nightlife.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Didn't feel like you had enough time yesterday to really get under the skin of this utterly unique city? We've got good news for you - today is completely free for Kyoto adventuring. Ask your Trip Manager for the essentials on what to eat and where to go, then our best advice? Go get yourself a little lost, it's undeniably the best way to get to know a new city.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Ready for a totally new experience? This morning it's all aboard the bullet train, travelling at a cool 320km/hr as we make our way to Hiroshima. Hello Hiroshima. We're kicking things off today with an optional but highly recommended Okonomiyaki lunch. Then, we'll learn about both the past and present on a sightseeing tour of this city that's remembered as the world's first atomic bomb target. The rest of the day will then be free to get to know Hiroshima however suits you best - food, shopping, history, it's all here at your fingertips.
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
We'll start the day with a ferry ride over to Miyajima Island where beautiful scenery and miniature deer await us. If you're impressed by the traditional Japanese gates at the entrance, just wait until you've seen the main event - the stunning Itsukushima Shrine. Culture goals ticked, we'll make our way back to Hiroshima to dig a little deeper into the city's noble history.
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Tokyo you're firmly in our sights but on route, we'll make a stop in the peaceful mountain town of Hakone. Breathtaking views of some of Japan's most famous sights are courtesy of the Hakone Ropeway. If the weather plays nice...you might spot the magnificent Mount Fuji. Welcome to the bright lights & big city vibes of Tokyo, our home for the next 3 nights. You'll have the night to use as you wish. How about heading to Shinjuku, the epicentre of Tokyo's gritty but super fun night scene.
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
We'll dive right into this 24 hour city with a sightseeing tour of the best bits. We'll take a walk down Nakamise Street (one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan that dates back to the 1500's) to pick up treasures for family and friends back home, brave the busiest street crossing in the world (Shibuya), then round things off at the epicentre of youth culture & fashion, Harajuku. This part of town buzzes with cool vibes & crazy fashion, and we reckon you'll instantly fall in lust.
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Today's our last day in Tokyo so let's make it one to remember. With a free day to explore Japan your way, we have a sneaking suspicion Harajuku may be calling you back - it kind of has that affect on people. How about a cosplay restaurant? Or even better, a chance to visit a unique remote-operated robot restaurant. You gotta see it to believe it!
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
And just like that, it's all over. Japan crew, it's been a hell of a 10 days, and we have a sneaking suspicion this isn't a forever goodbye…
Meals: Breakfast
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Tour Operator
Contiki (CA)
Contiki is a New Zealand-based tour company that caters to 18 to 35-year-olds, offering over 350 different tours in over 75 countries in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North America, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.[1] It is a subsidiary of The Travel Corporation. Its tours historically had a reputation for partying;[2][3] however, it also operates wellness trips culturally immersive experiences that focus less on alcohol, which are more popular with Generation Z.[4] The company owns lodging facilities in Europe, including the Chateau De Cruix, a 16th century castle in the Beaujolais wine region, and the Gasthof Schoneck in the Austrian Tyrol. The name "Contiki" comes from the portmanteau 'Con' from the word 'Continent' and 'Tiki'; from the Māori referring to the first man, often symbolised as a pendant known as hei-tiki. It can also be attributed to the New Zealand slang 'Tiki-tour' describing taking a longer route to a destination in order to explore.[5]
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
Daniel - Traveled, January 2020
The first half of the tour was amazing, japan is absolutely stunning , the hotel's and breakfast was awesome and the included extras The snow was amazing but that is because of mother nature, the Hotel that is provided is pretty basic compared to the rest in town and the breakfast is the worst all trip They say 6 days snow but remember to cut of the first day and last for travel, and make sure you bring enough money for your ski hire and lift pass as its not included The tour guides and Trip manager did a amazing job Thankyou!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2020
Nicholas Lefrancois - Traveled, April 2019
Great adventure anyone can enjoy! This tour hits all the important must see spots of Japan and more!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/06/2019
Stephanie - Traveled, April 2019
Best time ever! James was amazing!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/19/2019
Lincoln Waters - Traveled, April 2019
James was absolutely world class for your tour. Awesome bloke to hang around and would definitely go on another Contiki with him as manager.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/19/2019
Denni Maree Rankin - Traveled, April 2019
Loved the tour, the group and the manager
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/18/2019
Jordan Rogers - Traveled, April 2019
Shann was the highlight of the tour. An enthusiastic breath of fresh air. She was so knowledgeable and full of energy for every day of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2019
Saccman11 - Traveled, April 2019
Shan is amazing! Answers every question with a smile, and will go out of her way to personally lead you to the best Ice Cream around! Was an absolute pleasure and a privilege to have her as our guide :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2019
Robert Nicholls - Traveled, April 2019
Had amazing time in Japan! Shann was a very fun and knowledgeable tour guide to have leading my trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2019
Madeline - Traveled, April 2019
Shannon was by far the best part of my Japan trip. Full of knowledge and amazing suggestions.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2019
Lindsey - Traveled, April 2019
Fi has passion, energy, enthusiasm, and patience for days! Her excitement for Japan made the tour even more enjoyable. She answered our questions and was always available if we got turned around or needed a free time recommendation. She had a great sense of humor and can handle a challenging group with ease. If I can, I'd like to travel on another on her tours someday! Thanks Fi!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2019
Laura - Traveled, November 2019
Fi was so helpful on the tour and showed us the best places to go! Such an amazing trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2019
Camille - Traveled, March 2019
Had the best time! Shan our tour manager was awesome and really made everything easy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2019
Claudia Clarke - Traveled, February 2019
Loved the trip however I would not say it’s 4 day skiing as you can only have two full days skiing
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2019
Johnson - Traveled, December 2023
The Japan winter wonder trip has been a hit and miss for me. Hit: 1. Contiki has been professional in its hotel accommodation arrangement. 2. Our tour manager Renee has been very friendly and helpful, so does the local Japanese tour guides hired in different cities. 3. The organized tours cover most of the top destinations in each city. 4. The pace of the tour is good, as it mixed organized tours and free time add-ons. Miss: 1. We were brought to shopping plaza for lunch / dinner a few times. Contiki can do a better job recommending highly rated local restaurants for us to have a better dining experience. 2. Contiki is first and foremost an Australian travel agency targeting yound Australians. > 90% of your fellow travelers are young Australians (< 25 years old). If you do not conform to this demographic, you will likely have a hard time connecting with many of your fellow travelers. 3. Related to point 2 above, heavy drinking / partying can be expected throughout the trip. If you are not a drinker or party animal, you may want to think twice about joining this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2023
Liam - Traveled, January 2023
It was alright. Jaz was nice and I have no complaints about the tour management. The people on the tour could have been vetted better however.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/29/2023
Hoang Dat - Traveled, April 2022
This is an adventure of a life time. So much fun and memories. Would go again when after Covid
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2022
Georgia - Traveled, January 2020
I had the best time! Highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/04/2020
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